January 11, 2012

Mandatory paid sick leave: a basic right?

Currently, only San Francisco and Washington D.C. require employers to provide paid sick days to workers. In 2011, state legislators approved a bill to make Connecticut the first state in the nation to mandate paid sick leave for many service workers. And, similar measures are pending or will be introduced in Philadelphia and Seattle.

Proponents called it a landmark victory for workers’ rights. The bill applies only to businesses with 50 or more employees and exempts manufacturing companies, nationally chartered nonprofit organizations, day laborers, independent contractors, and temporary workers. Additionally, the bill covers only service workers receiving an hourly wage, including waiters, cashiers, fast-food cooks, hair stylists, security guards, and nursing home aids. Essentially, the employees may earn one hour of paid sick time for every 40 hours worked, with the number of days capped at 5 per year.

Massachusetts may soon follow Connecticut’s lead. Governor, Deval Patrick’s top labor adviser threw the administration’s weight behind a proposal, issued in April of 2011, which would require employers to allow workers to earn seven paid sick days a year. The Governor’s administration deemed this proposal a “basic right,” and bill supporters contend it would save $348 million a year by reducing employee turnover, slowing the spread of contagious illnesses, and increasing worker productivity.

The proposed bill would enable 1.5 million Massachusetts workers, (who currently do not have paid sick days,) to earn an hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked, (capped at 7 days per year.) The employees may use this time to care for themselves, a child, spouse, or other immediate family members.